fridge chemicals sector summit preparation: information ... · chemicals sector summit preparation:...

Initial draft for discussion with the Counterpart Group

FRIDGE

Chemicals Sector Summit

Preparation:

Information System Strategy

(Step 4)

23 March 2005 REVISED FINAL DRAFT

TABLE OF CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY..................................................................................................... i 1 Introduction to the document .......................................................................................1 2 Methodology ................................................................................................................2

2.1 Step 1: Review and consolidate available information....................................................... 2 2.2 Step 2: Address outstanding informational requirements .................................................. 2 2.3 Step 3: Develop strategy for the ongoing expansion of the information system ............... 3

3 Overview of current information system.......................................................................4 3.1 Assessment of content of websites .................................................................................... 7 3.2 Assessment of format of website...................................................................................... 13

4 Recommendations for addressing outstanding information requirements .................14 4.1 Market information ............................................................................................................ 14 4.2 Resources ......................................................................................................................... 17 4.3 Careers and skills.............................................................................................................. 17 4.4 Current events................................................................................................................... 18 4.5 Companies ........................................................................................................................ 19 4.6 Chemistry .......................................................................................................................... 19 4.7 Legislation and regulation ................................................................................................. 19 4.8 Institutional support ........................................................................................................... 22 4.9 Research and innovation .................................................................................................. 22 4.10 Health, Safety & Environment........................................................................................... 23 4.11 Industry organisations ....................................................................................................... 25

5 Strategy for ongoing expansion of information system ..............................................26 5.1 Ongoing screening of potential sources of information .................................................... 26 5.2 Promotion of awareness and usage of the website.......................................................... 29

Appendix 1: Overview of major national sites...................................................................30 Appendix 2: Overview of key international sites ...............................................................33

FRIDGE Chemicals Sector Summit Study Step 4 Information system strategy – 23 March 2005

Prepared by Kaiser Associates Economic Development Practice

i

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY In preparation for the Chemicals Sector Summit in 2005, FRIDGE commissioned assistance in evaluating the necessity to expand the existing information system in the chemicals sector, and in devising an appropriate development strategy to address any gaps. The diverse range of stakeholders in the chemicals industry have a wide range of different information requirements ranging from market and trade issues, technical information such as academic papers or Health, Safety & Environmental (H,S&E) guidelines, and personal interest information such as employment opportunities or chemistry in daily life. The objective was to ensure that stakeholders’ information requirements are met by increasing the information available to stakeholders both inside and outside the chemicals sector by means of a portal-type website. A web portal is a type of website that provides a tailored ‘gateway’ to the internet. It provides access to resources (including original content and content from third-party providers) as well as a range of features such as news bulletins or a search engine. The Chemweb and the Chemissa websites form the backbone of the current information system for the chemicals sector in South Africa. These will be merged into one website in the future. In addition, ChemSource – a CD-ROM based database – provides information on suppliers in the chemicals industry. There may be an opportunity to integrate the data into the Chemweb/Chemissa website when merged. Overall, there is good provision of links to information by the Chemweb website and detailed statistics by the Chemissa website; however, these sites currently fall short of providing a comprehensive information system. The main gaps in information provision that have been identified in this study include: � Lack of current links to international websites that provide international market information � Information on chemicals research and technology in South Africa and internationally � Government initiatives and support for the chemicals sector in South Africa � Information relating to hazards and environmental issues internationally, for example,

initiatives such as Responsible Care Further, the structure of the current website requires improvements in order to enable users to navigate the site and find relevant information more easily and quickly. There are two main approaches to filling these information gaps: linking to other sites that provide relevant content, and/or developing new original content for the portal site. The table below provides a summary of recommendations on websites to which the portal site can be linked, and areas where original content development is required.

Information

required Recommendation

Sector Overview Information on international sub-sector and end use markets

Link to sector organisation sites including: Plastics Council, World Chlorine Council, European Council of Vinyl Manufacturers

Country overview

Market overviews for potential export markets

Link to country profiles for all countries provided by the CIA

Production Information on international chemicals production

Link to production information for the EU and international comparisons provided on CEFIC Develop similar information for the South African market

Trends Global trends in the chemicals sector

Link to trends detailed on the American Chemical Society website



ii

Information


Trade agreement information

Link to sites on trade agreements, including Generalised System of Preferences, Southern African Customs Union on the Department of Foreign Affairs site, COMESA website, SADC Trade, Industry and Investment Review 2004, AGOA

Trade issues Link to CEFIC Position papers page (Links could be made directly to specific articles relating to key trade issues)

Trade

International trade in chemicals products

Link to specific sections of the trade data offered by the dti Link to Austrade’s search page for export information by category and target country Link to US Trade information

Employment Employment in the chemicals sector in South Africa

Link to employment statistics on CEFIC Link to pages providing information on trade unions, including CEPPWAWU Link to the Department of Labour

Health and safety indicators

Health and safety indicators for South Africa and other countries

Link to OECD Chemicals safety site for South Africa

Academic Further links to academic resources relating to chemicals research

Link to sites offering free searches of chemicals journals and article abstracts

Information on skills available

Link to CHIETA, and in future link to skills database on CHIETA website once this has been developed Link to sites offering networking opportunities

Training/Skills

Further links relating to educational matters

Link to pages offering educational material on chemicals

Current Issues More recent material on issues facing the chemicals sector

Develop more recent South Africa-specific articles with input from industry experts

News Links to news websites relating to the chemicals sector

Link to sites offering news articles, and journal articles, e.g. www.chemicalmarketreporter.com, trade publications on www.chemindustry.com

Events Links to relevant organisations required

Contact relevant organisations, e.g. Department of Science and Technology, to ascertain event schedules and post dates on website Link to expo information on www.chemnet.com for expos worldwide, e.g. ChemSpec Europe 2005, ChemSource 2005

Tenders Details on tenders in the chemicals sector in South Africa

Link to tenders on Engineering News and Tradeworld Link to government gazette tenders

Chemistry in daily life

Chemistry information for people outside the chemicals sector

Link to information on chemicals uses and products pitched at a level that is widely understandable

Physical processes/ Chemical reactions

Information on physical processes used in the manufacture of chemicals

Link to sites detailing physical processes and chemical reactions at levels that are accessible for both people inside and outside the industry



iii

Information


Relevant legislation

Links to applicable legislation

Link to legislation relating to: � Agricultural Produce Agents � Agricultural Product Standards � Marketing of Agricultural Products � Basic Conditions of Employment � Labour Relations � Companies � Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases � National Health � Occupational Diseases in Mines and Works � Disaster Management � Engineering Profession � Natural Scientific Professions � Environment Conservation � Environmental Laws Rationalisation � National Environmental Management � Biodiversity � Explosives � Patents and Intellectual Property Laws � Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development � Petroleum Pipelines � Petroleum Products � National Research Foundation � Pharmaceuticals � Fertilisers, Farm Feeds, Agricultural and Stock Remedies

Incentive and support entities

More direct links to entities

Link directly to incentives offered and support entities, including Small Business Development, Technology Transfer Guarantee Fund, SPII Fund, National Research Foundation, Department of Science and Technology, Innovation Fund, The Enterprise Office (TEO), Industrial Development Corporation, National Treasury, Technology for Women in Business (TWIB)

Information on R&D expenditure in South Africa and other countries

Link to South African National Survey of Research and Experimental Development 2001/02

Research and innovation

Additional sources of information

Link to the Innovation Hub

Hazards Further links providing information relating to chemical hazards

Provide company Material Safety sheets on website Link to UNEP chemicals programme page, UNITAR Chemicals & Waste, Basel Convention, INFOCAP, IPCS, Intergovern-mental Forum on Chemical Safety, Green Institute

Information on the Responsible Care Initiative

Link to Responsible Care information at CEFIC. American Chemistry Council (ACC), FECC, The Chemical Industry site, ICCA, CAIA, and Canada Chemicals Producers Association page.

Information on the High Production Volumes Initiative

Link to information on the High Production Volume (HPV) Chemicals Initiative

International Initiatives

Information on the Long range research initiative

Link to information on the long-range Research Initiative at ICCA, CEFIC, ACC, JCIA

Sustainable Development

Further information on sustainable development

Link to Chemicals and the Environment on the EU site, United Nations framework on climate change, etc.



iv

Information


Consumer confidence and safety

Further information on consumer health and safety

Link to US Food and Drug Administration, EU site on consumer safety with relation to chemicals

Industry organisations

Links to international industry organisations

Link to: � International Council of Chemical Associations � American Chemical Society � Society of the Plastics Industry (United States) � Canada’s Chemicals Producers � Japan Chemical Industry Association � National Industrial Chemicals Notification and Assessment

Scheme (NICNAS) � Plastics and Chemicals Industry Association Australia � New Zealand Institute of Chemistry

These recommendations form the basis from which to develop an ongoing improvement programme for the portal site. Initially, the website structure should be improved, the list of links suggested in this document should be finalised and incorporated into the website, and where new material has been recommended, this should be developed. On an ongoing basis, the website should be regularly assessed and updated, and new material should be incorporated as it becomes available. As the Chemicals Sector Summit considers expanding the information system it should follow best practices in website management. The content of linked website should be assessed according to its authority, currency, accuracy, relevance, objectivity, comprehensiveness and coverage. Website format should be assessed according to design and layout, presentation and copyright and cost issues. The content and format of the portal site should be kept up-to-date and the site should be promoted to current and potential users to increase awareness and drive traffic to the site. User surveys and traffic measurement should therefore be used to assess the effectiveness of the website.



1

1 Introduction to the document As part of the FRIDGE study in preparation for the Chemicals Sector Summit, research has been commissioned into various aspects of the chemicals sector in South Africa. This document details the output of Step 4 of the project, the development of a strategy to expand the existing information system.

STEP 1

Project initiation

STEP 6

Finalisation of strategic

recommendations

STEP 2

Recommendations on promotion of SMME’s

Recommendations to improve government support mechanisms

USA and EU

Strategy to expand existing

information system

STEP 3

STEP 4

STEP 1

Project initiation

STEP 6


recommendations

STEP 2



STEP 3

USA and EU polypropylene trade flow analysis

STEP 5

STEP 1

Project initiation

STEP 6


recommendations

STEP 2



USA and EU

Strategy to expand existing

information system

STEP 3

STEP 4

STEP 1

Project initiation

STEP 6


recommendations

STEP 2



STEP 3

USA and EU polypropylene trade flow analysis

STEP 5

The key objective which motivated this step was to increase the information available to stakeholders both inside and outside the chemicals industry, by means of a portal-type website. A web portal is a type of website that provides a tailored ‘gateway’ to the internet. It provides access to resources (including original content and content from third-party providers) as well as a range of features such as news bulletins or a search engine. This step therefore aimed to develop strategic recommendations for achieving this in a relevant and useful way. The key objectives of this work stream were therefore to: � Review and assess the available sources of information in the chemicals sector � Develop recommendations to expand the information system � Develop a strategy for the ongoing expansion of the information system



2

2 Methodology The methodology that was used is detailed further below:

Step 1: Review and consolidate existing

availability of information

Step 2: Make recommendations to

address outstanding information requirements

Step 3: Develop strategy for the ongoing expansion

of the information system

Step 1: Review and consolidate existing

availability of information

Step 2: Make recommendations to

address outstanding information requirements

Step 3: Develop strategy for the ongoing expansion

of the information system

2.1 Step 1: Review and consolidate available information The sources of information that were reviewed as constituting the available South African information system were: � Chemweb/ Chemissa:

The dti and the CSIR developed the Chemweb and the Chemissa sites to provide information to the chemicals sector. They will be merged into one website in the future.

o Chemweb was originally developed as a specialised portal for the chemicals industry in South Africa to provide information relevant to companies operating in the sector, including news, current issues facing the sector such as environmental issues, and overviews of the chemical sector. It also provides links to relevant sites.

o Chemissa was originally a subscription website which provided detailed and up to

date information regarding production, consumption and trade of chemicals in the SADC countries.

In the review below Chemweb and Chemissa were assessed as two different websites as at the time of the project they had not yet been merged. � ChemSource:

ChemSource is a CD-ROM which contains a database of suppliers in the chemicals sector. It may be discontinued as a CD-ROM for purchase, and there may be an opportunity to integrate the data into the Chemweb/Chemissa website.

Available information on best-in-class international sites and feedback from the Counterpart Group was consolidated and a list of content areas was drawn from this review. This provided a benchmark against which the provision of information by Chemweb and Chemissa could be measured and allowed information categories that are not available from these sites to be identified. The sources of information were also reviewed according to user friendliness and design, as this affects the usage rate of the website and therefore access to information. This was only done for Chemweb, as this is the basis for the newly merged website.

2.2 Step 2: Address outstanding informational requirements As part of this step an extensive review of national and international websites was conducted. These websites were compiled from: � A comprehensive search of the World Wide Web for chemicals related websites � Websites referenced in articles of interest � Recommendations from the Counterpart Group



3

Further, sources of information were investigated and consolidated for the subjects of: � Hazards in chemical production in South Africa � Hazards in chemical use in South Africa � Legislation applicable to the chemicals sector � International chemical initiatives including:

o Environmental initiatives e.g. Responsible Care initiative o Health and safety initiatives e.g. the HPV initiative o Trade initiatives

Websites covering these issues were reviewed in terms of the content they provide, in order to assess the relevance of the information provided to the chemicals sector in South Africa. For a detailed list of these websites see Appendices 1 and 2. In addition, these were evaluated using against a number of criteria, including: � Content criteria

o Authority o Currency o Accuracy o Relevance o Objectivity o Comprehensiveness o Coverage

� Format criteria o Design o Layout o Presentation

Further, recommendations were provided for addressing outstanding informational requirements by either linking to relevant websites where these are available, or by developing original content for inclusion in the website.

2.3 Step 3: Develop strategy for the ongoing expansion of the information system

This included a review of best practice in website management, involving the strategic approach to selecting sites for links and maintaining content that is up-to-date and relevant. The outcomes of this were detailed in section 5. In this step, best practice was determined from reviewing international guidelines on website management.



4

3 Overview of current information system Chemweb/Chemissa and Chemsource were assessed to determine the extent of coverage of topics and access to further sources of information which they provide to users. These websites were selected because they constitute the most comprehensive sources of information in the chemical sector in South Africa. As such, they would be the starting point for expanding the information system available by means of a portal site, as confirmed by the Counterpart Group. The current Chemweb site structure is shown in the diagram below:

SADC Countries

Home: Overview of South Africa

Industry and purpose of site

Chemical

Sub sectors

Industry Views

Environ-

mental Issues

Regulatory Issues

Training & Education

Incentive Schemes

Business

Infor-mation

Strategic Issues

Technology Innovation

Links to sitesData and articles

SADC Countries

Home: Overview of South Africa

Industry and purpose of site

Chemical

Sub sectors

Industry Views

Environ-

mental Issues

Regulatory Issues

Training & Education

Incentive Schemes

Business

Infor-mation

Strategic Issues

Technology Innovation

Links to sitesData and articles

Content of websites Key strengths and weaknesses in information provision are discussed below for each category of information. Overall, there is a lack of links to international websites which may provide useful information relating to international market information, information on chemicals research and technology, government initiatives and support, and information relating to hazards and environmental issues, for example initiatives such as Responsible Care. (The table in section 3.1 below shows the following findings in more detail.) Market information � There is sufficient market information provided on South Africa and the SADC countries,

although statistics relating to employment, R&D expenditure, and health and safety indicators are lacking

� There is insufficient information on international chemicals markets and market trends Academic Resources � The site links to the Chemicals Abstract Service, which provides a comprehensive

international database of journals and patent literature Careers and training � Extensive links are provided to recruitment agencies, both general and chemical-specific, e.g.

the Sasol careers page � Extensive links are also provided to educational organisations and services � Links are provided to education and training policy � There is no specific information on skills available to the chemicals sector



5

Current events � While articles on issues of concern are provided and links are provided to news sites, these

articles are not up-to-date � There is no information on current tenders Companies � ChemSource provides a comprehensive list of chemicals industry suppliers and

manufacturers in South Africa. This is not currently available online. � International suppliers can be identified through chemical industry search engines Chemistry � There is little information on chemical processes and reactions � There is little information on uses for chemical products Legislation and regulation � Links on regulation and legislation relating to environmental issues, competition issues, and

chemicals weapons and warfare are provided � Links to patenting issues are comprehensive � There are no links to legislation on labour issues, petroleum, disaster management, health,

and industry specific legislation such as the Pharmacies Act Institutional support � Links to incentive providing entities are provided � Links to Science and Technology institutions and departments are comprehensive Research and Innovation � There is little information on research and innovation, with the only link under this category

leading to the National R&D Strategy Health, Safety and Environment � Conventions, declarations and protocols affecting the chemicals industry are provided � Information on international initiatives such as the Long Range Research initiative and

Responsible Care is lacking � There is insufficient information on consumer safety



6

Format of information The Chemweb site has been briefly assessed according to its design and layout, presentation, and accessibility, and it was found that the Chemweb site is well designed with easy to use navigational aids. The design of the website is aesthetically pleasing, with good use of graphics, colours, and font sizes. The website format could however be improved by: � A site map page � A more extensive search function � Popup windows to explain contents of toolbar items � Interactive features (in addition to a contact facility) such as forums, bulletin boards and email

alerts could be used to attract more traffic to the site � Grouping links at a lower level, and where links relate to more than one category of

information these should be duplicated (The table in section 3.2 below shows the findings in more detail.)

FRIDGE Chemicals Sector Summit Study Step 4 Information system strategy –23 March 2005

Prepared by Kaiser Associates Economic Development Practice 7

3.1 Assessment of content of websites

Content of website Chemweb Chemissa ChemSource Information gap

Sector overview

� Overviews for various sectors, including: � Exports and imports for

SADC countries � Share of major countries of

total exports and imports � Total production of SADC

countries � Share of total production of

major producing countries � Total consumption of SADC

countries � Share of consumption by

major consuming countries

� Major products listed for 14 SADC countries

Sector information for international markets

Country overview

� Brief overview for SADC countries giving: � Major economic activities

and exports � GDP � Share of SADC GDP

� Including for 14 SADC countries: � Demographic overview � Industry composition � Trends in inflation and

interest rates � GDP performance � Trade balance

Country overviews for potential export markets

Market information

Production

� High level information for SADC countries on total production and share of major products in production

� � Production in 14 SADC

countries for 11 subsectors � Consumption of raw materials

for 11 subsectors in 14 SADC countries

Production of chemicals in potential export markets




Demand

�

High level information for SADC countries on: � Estimated total demand � Share of major products in

demand

�

� Consumption in 14 SADC countries for 11 subsectors

� Consumption of chemicals in end-use sectors for South Africa

Demand information for potential export markets and markets other than SADC

Trends

�

For SADC countries

Global market trends in the chemicals sector

Trade

� High level information for SADC countries on: � Total exports and imports � Share of major import and

export products

� Total SADC exports and imports for: � 11 sub sectors � 14 SADC countries � Major products in each

subsector based on HS codes

Non-SADC trade of chemicals products

Employment Employment issues and

statistics in the chemicals sector in South Africa

Health and safety

indicators

Health and safety indicators for South Africa and other countries

Resources Academic � Link to chemicals abstract service

Further links to academic resources relating to chemicals research

Careers Training

� Links to educational organisations, services and to legislation and policy relating to education Also includes links to educational material

Further links to information on available skills




Careers and recruitment

� Links to career advice sites and recruitment agencies

Current issues

� Overviews of current issues from industry experts, currently covering � Development of the

downstream chemicals sector in South Africa

� An overview of the sector in South Africa

� Production of fine chemicals in South Africa

� Health, Safety and Environmental issues

The most recent article however dates from 2002

More recent material on issues facing the chemicals sector – this would require regular updating

News � Links to general and sector publications

Links to news websites relating to the chemicals sector

Events � Links to information on upcoming conferences

Information on other events

Current events

Tenders Details on tenders in the

chemicals sector in South Africa

Companies Suppliers

� � Links to companies

providing chemical engineering services

� Links to search engines to identify international companies

� Details of suppliers to the chemicals industry

Information on BEE companies




Manufac-turers

� � Links to major

manufacturers in 12 sub sectors


� Major role players in 14 SADC countries listed

� Details of chemicals manufacturers/suppliers

Distribution


� Major role players in 14 SADC countries listed


Chemistry information for people outside the chemicals sector

Physical processes

Information on physical processes used in the manufacture of chemicals

Chemical reactions

Information on reactions used in the manufacture of chemicals

Chemistry

Product information

� Major products listed for 14 SADC countries

More comprehensive product information

Patents � Links to relevant sites both national and international

Weapons and warfare

� Links to government position articles

Legislation and

regulation

Competition issues

� Links to relevant sites

Links to relevant government legislation




OH, S & E � Environmental Management Occupational health and safety

Incentive entities

� Links to: � The dti website � Investment incentives at

www.safrica.info

� IDC site

More direct links for sites that provide incentives to the chemicals sector

Incubators � Link to Chemin incubator

Institutional support

Science and Technology Institutions

�

� Links to SADC Universities’ chemicals departments

� Links to SA Technikons’ chemicals departments

� Links to Scientific organisations, including Chemin, CSIR

Links to Science and Technology Institutions

R&D expenditure R&D expenditure in South

Africa and other countries Research

and innovation

Other information

� Link to the National R&D Strategy

Long range research initiative

Links to relevant sites required

Health, Safety & Environ-

ment Hazards/

Sustainable Develop-

� Link to hazardous chemicals database



Content of website Chemweb Chemissa ChemSource Information gap ment

� Links to relevant sites on: International conventions and declarations and protocols � Bahia Declaration � Basel Convention � Cartagena Protocol � Kyoto Protocol � Montreal Protocol � Stockholm Convention � Rotterdam Convention � ILO conventions on

chemicals � INFOCAP Environmental issues, including Relevant bills and white papers

Consumer confidence and safety

Consumer safety information

Responsible Care

Information on the Responsible Care initiative



3.2 Assessment of format of website

Format of website Chemweb Recommendations

Interactivity Interactive features

� “Contact us” feature

Provide more interactivity, e.g. in the form of a forums, bulletin board, email alert for new information, or online surveys

Logical organisation �

Design Presentation �

The website is uncluttered and easy to read

Toolbars � Toolbars are provided

Pop up information windows could be used to describe menu items

Downloading speed

� Acceptable downloading speed

Search facility � Search logic is acceptable

The search function should be immediately accessible on the home page

Contact email �

Navigational aids

� Good use of graphics as navigational aids No site map to aid navigation

Include site map

Ease of use

Links � Descriptions of links are provided Links are grouped on a high level

� Links should be organised into clear categories � Links should be duplicated where the subject matter falls

into two categories � Sites should be described in greater depth



14

4 Recommendations for addressing outstanding information requirements Key content areas that should be covered by a comprehensive chemicals website include: � Market information � Resources � Careers and skills � Current events � Companies � Chemistry � Legislation and regulation � Institutional support � Research and innovation � Health, safety and environment � Industry organisations Overall, the review of international websites revealed that there is a huge proliferation of chemicals sector related information readily available on the world-wide web. The challenge was to prioritise the most relevant sources, according to information needs. There is a broad range of websites available, including: � Industry organisation websites, e.g. the American Chemicals Council website � Environmental organisation websites, e.g. the United Nations Environment Programme

(UNEP) Chemicals website � Government supported websites which provide portals for chemical industries, and

environmental and legal information � Commercial website providers that provide news and information about the industry e.g.

European Chemical News � Global or regional organisation websites e.g. OECD website on chemical safety The recommendations to address the gaps in the information available identified in the previous section are detailed below. Additional links to industry organisations are also provided. For a detailed overview of relevant websites please refer to Appendices 1 and 2 of this document.

4.1 Market information

Information

required Suggested links

Description of website

Recommen-dations

Sector overview

Information for international sub sector markets

http://www.ecvm.org/ http://www.vinyl.org/ https://www.uktradeinvest.gov.uk/ukti/appmanager/ukti/sectors?_nfpb=true&_pageLabel=vpage_2&virtualPage=Oil http://www.plastics.org/s_plastics/index.asp http://www.worldchlorine.org/ http://www.chlorineinstitute.org/ http://www.c3.org/

Industry organisation websites, e.g.: Vinyl: � European Council

of Vinyl manufacturers

� Vinyl.org Plastics: � American Plastics

council website Chlorine: � World Chlorine

Council

Link to sites



15

Information



Recommen-dations

http://www.naacam.co.za Websites covering end use sectors, e.g.: Automotive: � National

Association of Automotive Component and Allied Manufacturers

Link to site

http://www.cbi.nl/show.php?file=show_document.html&id=33&setSection=exp

Information provided for exporters by the Netherlands – free registration required

Link to site

Information for national and international

end use markets

http://www.intracen.org/mas/mb.htm

Market briefs provided on the International Trade Centre website

Link to site

Country overview

Market overviews for

potential export markets

http://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/index.html

The CIA provides up to date country profiles for all countries

Link to site

Production

International chemicals production National

production

http://www.cefic.org/factsandfigures/level02/growthindustry_index.html

Production information for the EU and international comparisons on CEFIC

Link to site Similar user friendly information should be developed for the South African context

Demand

Demand information for potential export

markets and markets other than SADC

See international trade links

Trends Global trends in the chemicals

sector

http://www.chemistry.org/portal/a/c/s/1/acsdisplay.html?DOC=industry%5Cindustrystate.html

Trends detailed on the American Chemical Society Website

Link to this site

http://www.eurunion.org/legislat/gsp/gsp.htm

Generalised System of Preferences

Link to this site Trade

Trade agreement information http://www.dfa.gov.za/forei

gn/Multilateral/africa/sacu.htm

Department of Foreign Affairs site on the Southern African Customs Union

Link to this site



16

Information



Recommen-dations

http://www.comesa.int/ COMESA website Link to the site Although South Africa is not a COMESA member this site may be useful for companies interested in investing in other African countries

www.sadcreview.com SADC Trade, Industry and Investment Review 2004

Link to this site

www.agoa.gov/ Site for AGOA by the US government

Link to this site

http://www.southafrica.info/doing_business/sa_trade/agreements/traderelations.htm

South Africa information site that details trade agreements

Link to this site

Trade issues

http://www.cefic.be/Templates/shwPublications.asp?NID=2&T=3&S=9

CEFIC - Position papers

Link to this site. Links to specific articles on trade issues could also be made.

http://www.thedti.gov.za/econdb/raportt/rapmenu1.html

World trade at 3 to 6 digit level with specific information for: � South Africa � US � UK � OECD countries � Japan

http://www.austrade.gov.au/australia/layout/0,,0_S2-1_CLNTXID0019-,00.html

Austrade search page for information on exporting to other countries

International trade of

chemicals products

http://www.export.gov/tradestatistics.html

Information for exporters on US Trade and international trade statistics

Link to specific sections and describe the link, e.g.: Exports and imports of Primary Ethylene Polymer (SITC 571) for 162 countries for 1997 – 2002: http://www.thedti.gov.za/econdb/raportt/PRIMARYETHYLENEPOLYMERcomtr.html

Develop statistics on employment in the chemicals industry in South Africa

Employment

Employment in the chemicals

sector in South Africa

http://www.labour.gov.za Department of Labour Link to this site



17

Information



Recommen-dations

http://www.cosatu.org.za/affiliates/afficep.htm

CEPPWAWU – Chemicals, Energy, Paper, Printing, Wood and Allied Workers Union of South Africa on the COSATU website

Link to this site

Health and safety

indicators

Health and safety

indicators for South Africa

and other countries

http://www.oecd.org/infobycountry/0,2646,en_2649_34365_1_70915_1_1_1,00.html

OECD Chemicals safety site for South Africa

Link to this site

4.2 Resources

Information



Recommen-dations

http://www.chemweb.com/abstracts/

Free search of chemicals abstracts

Link to this site

Academic

Further links to academic resources relating to chemicals research

http://www.chemweb.com/journals

Free search of chemicals journals, with free access to abstracts

Link to this site

4.3 Careers and skills

Information



Recommen-dations

http://www.chieta.org.za/home.asp

Chemicals Industry Education and Training Authority

A skills database may be developed by CHIETA; In future link directly to the database Link to the CHIETA site

Information on skills available

http://www.chempeople.com/

Subscription site that facilitates global networking within the chemicals industry

Link to this site

http://inventors.about.com/library/inventors/blplastic.htm

Provides a history of plastics

Link to site

http://www.teachingplastics.com/index.html

Guide and material for teachers on plastics education at three different levels

Link to site

Training/Skills

Further links

http://www.chemistry.org/portal/a/c/s/1/educatorsandstudents.html

Educational material for all levels

Link to this site



18

4.4 Current events

Information



Recommen-dations

Current issues

More recent material on

issues facing the chemicals

sector

Develop more recent South Africa specific articles with input from industry experts

http://chemicalmarketreporter.com/home/Default.asp?type=0&liSectionID=12

Chemical Market Reporter provides news and market reports – by subscription only

Link to site – specify that this site is by subscription only

http://www.chemistry.org/portal/a/c/s/1/newscenter.html

Selection of news articles, journal articles

Link to site

http://chemweb.tradepub.com/

Comprehensive list linked to chemicals and chemicals-related magazine sites that my need to be accessed by subscription

Link to site. Assess access issues.

News

Links to news websites

relating to the chemicals

sector

http://www.europeanchemicalnews.com/home/Default.asp?type=1&liArticleID=653063&liSectionID=201

European Chemical News – news in the chemicals industry This link is by subscription only

Link to site Specify that access can be gained only by subscription

Events

Provide details for trade expos

and conferences worldwide

http://www.chemnet.com/expo/m/expo/

Provides details for trade expos worldwide

Contact relevant organisations, e.g. Department of Science and Technology to ascertain event schedules and post on website

http://www.tradeworld.net Tenders on Tradeworld

Link to site

http://www.info.gov.za/documents/tenders/index.htm

Tenders published in the government gazette

Link to site

Tenders

Details on tenders in the

chemicals sector in South

Africa

http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/eng/essentials/tenders/

Tenders on engineering news

Link to site Further, a link to government gazette tenders could be included



19

4.5 Companies

Information



Recommen-dations

Companies Information on

BEE companies

Link to dti database of BEE companies when available online

4.6 Chemistry

Information



Recommen-dations


Chemistry information for people outside the chemicals

sector

http://www.cefic.be/Templates/shwStory.asp?NID=13&HID=104

Information on chemicals uses and products pitched at a level that is widely understandable

Link to site

Physical processes

Information on physical

processes used in the

manufacture of chemicals

http://www.chemical-industry.org.uk/

Physical processes Link to site

http://www.cas.org/CASFILES/casreact.html

Information on chemical reactions

Link to site

http://www.chem.ox.ac.uk/vrchemistry/

Chemistry department at Oxford University

Link to site Chemical reactions

Information on reactions used

in the manufacture of

chemicals http://www.chemical-industry.org.uk/

Information on chemical reactions

Link to site

4.7 Legislation and regulation

Information



Recommen-dations

http://www.ais.up.ac.za/vet/fertiliz.pdf

Fertilizers, Farm Feeds, Agricultural Remedies and Stock Remedies Act

Link to this document

http://www.polity.org.za/pol/acts/2003/

Agricultural Produce Agents Amendment act (No. 47 of 2003)

Link to relevant legislation

http://www.polity.org.za/html/govdocs/bills/1998/index.html

Agricultural Product Standards Amendment Bill, No.24


Relevant legislation

Agriculture related

http://www.polity.org.za/html/govdocs/legislation/1997/index.html

Marketing of Agricultural Products Amendment Act, No.59




20


Basic Conditions of Employment Amendment Act (No. 11 of 2002)


Labour


Labour Relations Amendment Act (No. 12 of 2002)


Businesses http://www.polity.org.za/pol/acts/2004/

Companies Amendment Act (No. 20 of 2004)


http://www.info.gov.za/gazette/acts/1993/a85-93.htm

Occupational Health and Safety Act

Link to this site


Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Amendment Act, No.61



National Health Act (No. 61 of 2003)


Health


Occupational Diseases in Mines and Works Amendment Act (No. 60 of 2002


Disaster management


Disaster Management Act (No. 57 of 2002)



Engineering Profession Bill, No 19


Engineering/ Professional

related http://www.polity.org.za/pol/acts/2003/

Natural Scientific Professions Act (No. 27 of 2003)



Environment Conservation Act Extension Bill, No.66



Environment Conservation Amendment Act (No. 50 of 2003)



Environmental Laws Rationalisation Act, No.51



National Environmental Management Amendment Act (No. 46 of 2003)



National Environmental Management Amendment Act (No. 56 of 2002)


Environment related

http://www.polity.org.za/pol/bill/2003/

National Environmental Management Amendment Bill (B 29-2003)




21


National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (No. 10 of 2004)



National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act (No. 57 of 2003)



National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Amendment Bill (B 2-2004)


Explosives


Explosives Act (No. 15 of 2003)



Patents Amendment Act, 10


Intellectual property http://www.polity.org.za/html/

govdocs/legislation/1997/index.html

Intellectual Property Laws Amendment Act, No.38



Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (No. 28 of 2002)



Mineral and Petroleum Royalty Bill (B 1-2002)



Petroleum Pipelines Act (No. 60 of 2003)



Petroleum Pipelines Levies Bill (B 18-2004)



Petroleum Products Amendment Act (No. 58 of 2003)



Petroleum Products Amendment Bill (B 16-2004)


Petroleum related


Petroleum products amendment bill (B25-2003)


Research http://www.polity.org.za/html/govdocs/legislation/1998/index.html

National Research Foundation Act, No.23


Pharmacies related


Pharmacy Amendment Act, No.6




22

4.8 Institutional support

Information



Recommen-dations

http://www.twib.co.za Technology for Women in Business (TWIB)

Link to site

http://www.idc.co.za Industrial Development Corporation

Link to site

http://www.treasury.gov.za National Treasury Link to site http://www.thedti.gov.za/thedti/organisation1e.htm

The Enterprise Office (TEO)

Link to site

http://www.theinnovationhub.com

The Innovation Hub Link to site

http://www.dti.gov.za/offerings/offeringgroup.asp?offeringgroupid=22

Small Business Development

Link to site

http://www.dti.gov.za/offerings/offeringgroup.asp?offeringgroupid=25

Technology Transfer Guarantee Fund

Link to site

http://www.spii.co.za SPII Fund Link to site

www.nrf.ac.za National Research Foundation

Link to site

www.dst.gov.za Department of Science and Technology

Link to site

Incentive and support entities

More direct links to entities

www.innovationfund.ac.za Innovation Fund Link to site

4.9 Research and innovation

Information



Recommen-dations

R&D expenditure

http://www.hsrc.ac.za/RnDSurvey/downloads/2001_02RnDSurveyIndex.pdf

South African National Survey of Research and Experimental Development 2001/02

Link to this document

http://www.theinnovationhub.com

The Innovation Hub Link to this site

Research and innovation

Additional sources of information

http://www.chemweb.com/abstracts/

Free search of chemicals abstracts

Link to this site



23

4.10 Health, Safety & Environment

Information



Recommen-dations

Provide companies’ Materials Safety sheets on website

http://www.chem.unep.ch/irptc/default.htm

UNEP chemicals programme page. Provides information on UNEPs chemicals programmes

Link to site

http://www.unitar.org/cwm/about.htm

UNITAR Chemicals & Waste

Link to site

http://www.basel.int/

Basel Convention

Link to site

http://www.who.int/ifcs/infocap/

INFOCAP Link to site

http://www.who.int/ipcs/en/ IPCS Link to site http://www.who.int/ifcs/ Intergovernmental

Forum on Chemical Safety

Link to site

http://www.oecd.org/department/0,2688,en_2649_34365_1_1_1_1_1,00.html

Comprehensive site relating to chemicals safety

Link to site

Hazards Further links

http://www.chemistry.org/portal/a/c/s/1/acsdisplay.html?DOC=greenchemistryinstitute\index.html

Green Institute Link to site

http://www.cefic.be/Templates/shwStory.asp?NID=3&HID=8

CEFIC -Responsible Care

Link to site

http://www.responsiblecare-us.com/

American Chemistry Council (ACC) - Responsible Care

Link to site

http://www.fecc.org/en/index.php?pageid=45

FECC - Responsible Care

Link to site

http://www.chemical-industry.org.uk/responsiblecare.htm

The Chemical Industry - responsible care

Link to site

http://www.icca-chem.org/section02a.html

ICCA - Responsible Care

Link to site

International initiatives

Responsible Care Initiative

http://www.mbendi.co.za/caia/rescare.htm

CAIA - Responsible Care

Link to site



24

http://www.ccpa.ca/ResponsibleCare/

Responsible Care at the Canada Chemicals Producers Association page. The responsible care initiative was originated by this organisation

Link to site

High Production Volumes Initiative

http://www.icca-chem.org/section02b.html

High Production Volume (HPV) Chemicals Initiative

Link to site

http://www.icca-chem.org/section02c.html

ICCA - Long-range Research Initiative

Link to site

http://www.cefic-lri.org/Templates/shwStory.asp?NID=19&HID=369

CEFIC - Long-range Research Initiative

Link to site

http://www.uslri.org/

ACC - Long-range Research Initiative

Link to site

http://www.j-lri.org/ JCIA - Long-range Research Initiative

Link to site

Long range research initiative

http://www.uslri.com/ Long range research initiative in the US

Link to site

http://www.unep.org/themes/chemicals/

United Nations Environment Programme (Division of Technology, Industry and Economics

Link to site

http://europa.eu.int/comm/environment/chemicals/

Chemicals and the environment on the EU site

Sustainable development

Further information on

sustainable development

http://unfccc.int/2860.php United Nations Framework on climate change Provides information on climate change an the Kyoto protocol

Link to site

http://www.fda.gov/ US Food and Drug Administration – information on products

Link to site

Consumer confidence and

safety

Further information on

consumer health and

safety http://europa.eu.int/comm/consumers/cons_safe/prod_safe/chem_risks/index_en.htm

EU site on consumer safety with relation to chemicals

Link to this site



25

4.11 Industry organisations

Information



Recommen-dations

http://www.icca-chem.org/ International Council of Chemical Associations Provides information on health, safety and environmental issues

Link to site

http://www.chemistry.org/portal/a/c/s/1/acsdisplay.html?DOC=careers.html

American Chemical Society

Link to site

http://www.plasticsindustry.org/

Society of the Plastics Industry (United States)

Link to site

http://www.ccpa.ca/ Canada’s Chemicals Producers

Link to site

http://www.nikkakyo.org/English/organizations/lri/index.php3/

Japan Chemical Industry Association

Link to site

http://www.nicnas.gov.au/ National Industrial Chemicals Notification and Assessment Scheme (NICNAS) provides assessments of chemicals in Australia in terms of health and safety concerns

Link to site

http://www.pacia.org.au/ Plastics and Chemicals Industry Association Australia

Link to site

Industry organisations

Links to international

industry organisations

http://www.nzic.org.nz/ New Zealand Institute of Chemistry Does not provide much content

Link to site



26

5 Strategy for ongoing expansion of information system The website should be maintained with the objectives of keeping the content and format up to date, and relevant. This can be done by: � Regularly assessing new links and sources of information � Regularly checking that links function correctly � Developing new information on a regular basis � Conducting regular user satisfaction surveys As highlighted by the analysis above, most of the information gaps identified above can be addressed by providing links to other websites. These websites to which links are made should be assessed according to their content and format. This should be done according to the criteria set out below.

5.1 Ongoing screening of potential sources of information Potential sources of information that relate to both the South African context and the international chemicals industry should be identified as they become available for further expansion of the information system. These could include: � Industry studies by chemical consultants or industry experts � Databases developed to include information on chemical products, companies, or skills � Government notices of legislation, regulation and tenders � International and South African websites Websites to which links can be established should be evaluated according to their content and their format: Criteria to assess a website’s content

Criteria1 Considerations Recommendations

Authority

� Is it clear who is responsible for the site?

� Is the source appropriate to the type of information provided?

� Is the site an official site of an organisation?

� Can the information be verified? � Can the author be contacted? � Has the site received reviews

and have these been favourable?

� The website should be managed by a reputable industry organisation

� There should be contact details of the responsible authority

Currency

� Is the site regularly updated? � Is the frequency of up dating

appropriate to the information? � Is new information included on

a timely basis?

� Information that should be updated regularly:

o News, events, tenders

� Information which should

1Developed from: http://nnlm.gov/scr/conhlth/evalsite.htm http://www.llrx.com/features/evaluating.htm#Criteria%20of%20Evaluation http://www.clubi.ie/webserch/resources/integrity.htm http://www.isinet.com/essays/selectionofmaterialforcoverage/23.html/ http://library.usm.maine.edu/research/researchguides/webevaluating.html



27

Criteria1 Considerations Recommendations � Is older information archived? � Does the site have clear

pointers to new content? � Is there a commitment to

ongoing maintenance of the resource?

be updated on a timely basis:

o Changes in legislation or regulation

Accuracy

� Is the information in the resource accurate?

� Has the information been through a selection process?

� Is the information supported by research findings?

� Is there a facility for sending corrections to inaccurate information?

� The information presented should be accurate and verifiable

Relevance

� Is the information relevant to the chemicals sector?

� What is the intended audience? � Is the level at which the

resource is pitched appropriate for the intended audience?

� Is the material appropriate for minors?

� The information should be relevant to the chemicals sector of South Africa

� The information should be accessible to both industry and non-industry audiences

Objectivity

� What is the purpose of the site? � Is the resource reasonably

balanced? � Is the information based on fact

or opinion?

� The purpose of the site should be clearly stated so that any bias is made clear

Comprehensiveness

� Is the resource comprehensive within its given area?

� What is the level of detail? � Is there adequate coverage of

the subject? � Are there any obvious

omissions? � Is the site still under

construction and therefore incomplete?

� Does the site contain original information or links or both?

� The site should be as comprehensive as possible within its given scope

Coverage

� What is the scope of the website?

� What is the range of different subjects covered within the area?

� What is the retrospective coverage of the source?

� What type of information is included?

� Does the resource cover the subject adequately?

� Are there any links to further information?

� The website should cover any subject that may impact on chemicals industry stakeholders including companies, support industries, research institutions, government, the environment, labour and consumers



28

Criteria to assess a website’s format

2Criteria Considerations

Design and layout

� Is the resource well designed? � Is there effective use of

navigation aids such as a site map, index, menus, toolbars or search facility?

� Is the design consistent between different parts of the same resource?

� Are images used appropriately? � Is advertising used

appropriately or does it detract from the value of the information?

� Is user support provided? � Are links clearly identifiable?

� The website should be attractively designed and clearly laid out so that information can be easily accessed. (Otherwise user will be deterred from using the site regularly)

Presentation

� Is the writing of good quality? � Are graphics professionally

presented? � Are there any typographical or

grammatical errors?

� All information should be presented in clear language, although the type of language used will differ according to the audience for which the site is intended

Copyright and cost issues

� Do users need to register to use the resource, and if so, is this a straightforward process?

� Is there a charge to access the resource and how does this compare to other materials?

� Is the price structure indicated? � Are services available with

limited functionality, or for trial periods?

� Is there sufficient transaction security for payments?

� Links can be provided whether the site requires a subscription or not, as the users then have the choice of subscribing

� Links that require a subscription should be described as such

� Sites which require subscription may be willing to pay for advertising on the portal site

2 http://nnlm.gov/scr/conhlth/evalsite.htm

http://www.llrx.com/features/evaluating.htm#Criteria%20of%20Evaluation http://www.clubi.ie/webserch/resources/integrity.htm http://www.isinet.com/essays/selectionofmaterialforcoverage/23.html/ http://library.usm.maine.edu/research/researchguides/webevaluating.htmlhttp://www.vuw.ac.nz/staff/alastair_smith/evaln/index.htm http://hitiweb.mitretek.org/docs/policy.html http://biome.ac.uk/guidelines/eval/summary.html



29

5.2 Promotion of awareness and usage of the website The website should also be promoted to increase awareness and usage of the site. This can be done by: � Direct emailing to stakeholders � Tailoring of content to user needs � Interactive features to drive traffic to the site � Links on related pages, such as industry organisation sites, government sites, and general

information sites such as www.southafrica.info. Means of assessing the success of website promotion should be set up, including: � Website traffic measurement � User interviews This would require sufficiently skilled human resources for both technical and strategic applications. These functions of website/content manager could be outsourced or appointed in-house.



Appendix 1: Overview of major national sites

Website name

URL Chemical Hazard - Production

Chemical Hazard - Use

Applicable legislation

International chemical initiatives

SA industry info

Comment

Chemweb

new address: http://www.chemissa.co.za/new/ �

Articles (e.g. The Chemical Industry's Health, Safety and Environmental Initiative article) and environmental issues links

�

Articles (e.g. The Chemical Industry’s Health, Safety and Environmental Initiative article) and environmental issues link

� Create section based upon Good overview of SADC countries and South Africa, good structure and good categorisation on banners. Good method of either providing information on their pages or linking directly to other sites. This could form the basis of recommended structure for site.

Chemissa

http://www.chemissa.co.za

� Provides information on

consumption and trade of chemicals in fourteen SADC countries

Empower-ment of African Sustainable Development

http://www.easd.org.za/default.asp �

White Paper on Environmental Management Policy and Draft White Paper on Integrated Pollution and Waste Management for South Africa



Website name





SA industry info

Comment

South African Government Information

http://www.info.gov.za

�

Link

Provides access to legislation , draft legislation and policy documents

Policy and Law Online News

http://www.polity.org.za/pol/home/

�

Link

Provides access to all South Africa Bills and Acts. Link page could include suggested links to relevant legislation

Mbendi Chemicals Industry Profile

http://www.mbendi.co.za/indy/chem/af/sa/p0005.htm

� Create section based upon Provides a good overview of the industry including industry structure, incentives and contacts for major players. May be useful to link to as background reading on SA chemicals industry (CAIA already does this). Stats section is a bit dated (1994-1998).

Chemical and Allied Industries' Association (CAIA)

http://www.mbendi.co.za/caia/index.htm

�

Responsible Care

� Link Representative body link. Section on responsible care only relevant section worth linking to.

South African Petroleum Industry Association

http://www.mbendi.com/sapia/

�

Link Representative body link.

South Africa Institution of Chemical Engineers (SAICHE)

http://www.saiche.co.za/

� Link

Representative body link



Website name





SA industry info

Comment

South African Chemical Institute

http://www.saci.co.za/

� Link

Representative body link Information is out dated and not easy to navigate.

Science and Technology Research Organisation (CSIR)

www.csir.co.za/

� Link

May be useful to link to section on Bio/Chemtek.

South African Bureau of Standards

http://www.sabs.co.za/

� Link

May be useful as a link for standards, regulation and for chemical / petrochemical commercial services offered



Appendix 2: Overview of key international sites

Website name URL Chemical Hazard - Production




Industry info Comment

The International Council of Chemical Associations (ICCA)

http://www.icca-chem.org/

�

Responsible Care High Production Volume (HPV) Chemicals Initiative Long-range Research Initiative

� Link International Representative body link and links to international chemical initiatives

American Chemical Society

http://www.chemistry.org

� Link International Representative body link that has further links to databases, directories and other chemicals based resources

CEFIC (European Chemical Industry Council)

http://www.cefic.be

�

Responsible Care Long-range Research Initiative Trade – Position papers

� Link International Representative body link that has further info on chemicals industry in EU.

American Chemistry Council (ACC)

http://www.americanchemistry.com/

�

Responsible Care Long-range Research Initiative

� Link International Representative body link that has further info on chemicals industry in USA








The Chemical Industry

http://www.chemical-industry.org.uk/

�

Responsible Care � Link

International Representative body link that has further info on chemicals industry in UK

Japan Chemical Industry Association (JCIA)

http://www.nikkakyo.org/English/index.php3

�

Long-range Research Initiative

� Link International Representative body link that has further info on chemicals industry in Japan

The Physical and Theoretical Chemistry Laboratory Oxford University Chemical and Other Safety Information

http://physchem.ox.ac.uk/MSDS/

� �

Link Source of general information about safety and the potential hazards of chemicals

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health - Chemical Safety Databases and Other Resources

http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/chemical-safety/default.html

� �

Link Source of information on chemical hazards

International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS) INCHEM

http://www.inchem.org/

� �









ChemQuik MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) Sources

http://www.chemquik.com/site/cq/freecq-sources.asp

� �


Emergency response guide 2000

http://www.tc.gc.ca/canutec/erg_gmu/erg2000_menu.htm

� � Link

Source of information on chemical hazards

Hazardous substances databank

http://ull.chemistry.uakron.edu/erd/

� � Link


HazDat database http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/hazdat.html

� � Link


An Introduction to Chemical Hazards in the Workplace

http://www.dhs.ca.gov/ohb/HESIS/uts.htm

� � Link


Chemical Hazards Communication Society

http://www.chcs.org.uk/

� � Link


Chemical Hazards in Industry

http://www.rsc.org/is/database/chihome.htm

� � Link

A monthly newsletter which reports on health and safety issues for all sectors of the chemical and allied industries








OECD Website - Chemical safety

http://www.oecd.org/topic/0,2686,en_2649_34365_1_1_1_1_37465,00.html

� � Link


United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Chemicals

http://www.unep.org/themes/chemicals/

� � Link

UN body that seeks to encourage partnership in caring for the environment

United Nations Environment Programme (Division of Technology, Industry and Economics)

http://www.uneptie.org/

FECC: The European Association of Chemical Distributors

http://www.fecc.org/en/index.php?pageide=43

�

Responsible Care � Link

International Representative body link that has further info on chemicals industry in Europe

UNITAR Chemicals & Waste

http://www.unitar.org/cwm/about.htm

�

Chemical and waste management

Link UN Institute for Training and Research – Chemical and waste management programme








Basel Convention http://www.basel.int/

�


Link UNEP site providing information on the Basel Convention

INFOCAP http://www.who.int/ifcs/infocap/

�


Link Information Exchange Network on Capacity Building for the Sound Management of Chemicals

Rotterdam Convention

http://www.pic.int/en/viewpage.asp?id_cat=0

�

Prior Informed Consent

Link Provides information on the Rotterdam Convention on PIC

Stockholm Convention

http://www.pops.int/

�

Persistent Organic Pollutants

Link Provides information on the Stockholm Convention on POP

Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW)

http://www.opcw.org

�

Prohibition of chemical weapons

Link Provides information on the OPCW and it efforts to abolish chemical weapons








WHO - International Programme on Chemical Safety

http://www.who.int/ipcs/en/

� �

�

Chemical safety

Link Provides information on the IPCS and its efforts to establish the scientific basis for safe use of chemicals, and to strengthen national capabilities and capacities for chemical safety.

Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety

http://www.who.int/ifcs/

Link Provides information on the IFCS and how it develops and promotes strategies and partnerships among national governments, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations

Chemical Market Reporter

http://chemicalmarketreporter.com

� Subscription website with news and market information

European Chemical News

http://www.europeanchemicalnews.com

� Subscription website with news and market information








Chemicals technology

http://www.chemicals-technology.com � Market

information, news, extensive links

fridge chemicals sector summit preparation: information ... · chemicals sector summit preparation:...

Documents